Steam Plant Operator (SR) - Facilities Services - UTK

The Senior Steam Plant Operator is responsible for analyzing problems and taking appropriate actions to ensure continuous and reliable operation of equipment and systems. This person will monitor and inspect equipment, computer terminals, switches, valves, gauges, alarms, safety devices, and meters to detect leaks or malfunctions and to ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and safely. This person will observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating properly. This person will also monitor boiler water, chemical, and fuel levels, and make adjustments to maintain required levels. Having the ability to light off boilers and other associated equipment to maintain safe operating conditions is required for this role.

• Observe and interpret readings on gauges, meters, and charts registering various aspects of boiler operation to ensure that boilers are operating safely and properly. 
• Make adjustments when necessary to maintain boilers and all associated equipment. 
• Make skillful decisions based on knowledge and experience. 
• Perform diagnostics to maintain systems for continuous operations on campus. 
• Interact with students, faculty, staff, and the general public in a courteous, professional, and inclusive manner.
• Must be able to light off boilers and take boilers off line safely according to manufacturer guidelines. 
• Start additional equipment when needed to ensure the plant is operating correctly. 
• Report job information to supervision including any repairs, issues, deficiencies or needed parts to correct a problem or potential issue of boiler systems. 
• Report any unsafe practices or conditions discovered in a timely manner. 
• Take readings on boilers, turbine, and associated equipment to maintain logs according to EPA guidelines. 
• Assist in the preparation of special maintenance events as assigned. 
• Responsible for the training of fellow staff on systems and boiler operation. 
• Study technical manuals and equipment information to improve knowledge and understanding of all the campus steam and boiler systems and associated equipment. 
• Take available classes and training online and from vendors to stay up to date on the latest maintenance and control strategies and technology.

Required Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Experience: Three (3) years of relevant experience
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: 
  • A good working knowledge of the complete operation of a steam plant and use of steam system. 
  • Skills and ability to keep boilers and equipment running efficiently. 
  • The ability to perform work under stress for long periods. 
  • Knowledge of plant operation codes and safety codes.

• Other Conditions: 

  • Valid Driver’s license

  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Vocational or Technical training - Experience may substitute for training on a year per year basis. 
• 3-5 years job related experience
• Ability to operate gas and oil fired boilers, feed water pumps, condensate pumps, turbine generator and complete knowledge of steam plant operations.

Work Location

• University of Tennessee – Knoxville, TN Campus
• This is an on-site position

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR09
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

About the Department

 UT Facilities Services is responsible for the care and keeping of more than 300 facilities and utilities systems in and around Knoxville. As the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s largest non-academic department, team members are responsible for facilities maintenance and repair, custodial needs, landscaping and lawncare, utility work, in-house and capital construction projects, facilities planning and design, environmental initiatives, pest control, campus event services, and facilities administration functions for both the flagship campus and the agricultural institute.  The Facilities Services staff provides around-the-clock coverage to ensure students, staff, faculty, and fans have a consistent and positive experience every time they step foot on Rocky Top.